RCMP investigating death of snowboarder in Whistler

Chinese national found in Fitzsimmons Creek day after reported missing

The Whistler RCMP and B.C. Coroner's Service are investigating the sudden death of a snowboarder, reporting missing by Whistler Blackcomb Ski Patrol on March 27.

The deceased has been identified as a 23-year-old Chinese national who was attending school in Canada and was snowboarding by herself when she went missing. When she did not meet up with her friends they contacted ski patrol and the authorities at around 6:30 pm on March 27.

"Search and Rescue was mobilized as part of our missing skier protocol," said Sergeant Rob Knapton of the Whistler RCMP in a statement adding that the search could not begin until about 7 a.m. on March 28. "At approximately 10:30 a.m. (on March 28), search and rescue located the missing snowboarder. She was deceased in Fitzsimmons Creek between the sliding centre and power plant.

It's not known how the woman ended up in the area, but police believe she rode out of bounds and was attempting to hike out.

The RCMP is reminding people of the dangers associated to back country skiing in light of this death.

Individuals entering the back country should ensure that they have the skills and equipment to operate there safely, said Knapton.

In addition they should be travelling in groups and provide a plan to people at home in the event they become lost.

If lost and unable to call for help they should keep out of water as hypothermia is one of the greatest dangers they will face.